"Don’t quit, keep going until you can turn something impossible into a reality". - Sandra Sanchez

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on JAN 26, 2024

"Don’t quit, keep going until you can turn something impossible into a reality." - Sandra Sanchez

 

(2 minute and 1 second read)

Sandra Sanchez, once told that she was too old to compete, stated; “Don’t quit, keep going until you can turn something impossible into a reality”.

Perseverance is an essential quality that fuels success in various aspects of life. The journey of a martial artist is laden with challenges, setbacks, and the constant pursuit of self-improvement.

Your path is not a linear one; it is marked by trials, tribulations, and moments of self-discovery. From the novice white belt to the seasoned black belt, every practitioner faces the same obstacles that demand perseverance.

Whether it’s mastering a complex technique, enduring rigorous training sessions, or overcoming defeats, you learn early on that success is not handed to you – it is earned through unwavering dedication.

The journey you are on is riddled with physical and mental obstacles that require a tenacious spirit to overcome. Injuries, defeats, and moments of self-doubt are inevitable, but it’s the ability to persist through these trials that separates those who merely practice martial arts, from those who embody its principles.

Training consistently, day in and day out, requires a steadfast commitment that goes beyond momentary motivation. The repetitive nature of drills, kata, sparring and exercises, is a testament to the discipline required to hone your skills.

Don’t lose sight of the fact that your training is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.

Be patient and try setting incremental goals on your journey, which makes the marathon much easier to negotiate, but each still requiring perseverance to attain.

Whether it’s earning a higher belt, mastering a specific kata or drill, or participating in a competition, these goals can then serve as reachable milestones that still demand dedication and resilience.

The pursuit of these objectives fosters a mindset that views challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth.

It is important to remember that perseverance in the martial arts extends beyond physical prowess; it encompasses the development of a resilient mind.

The mental fortitude required to withstand the pressures of live training drills, to stay focused during training, and maintain composure in the face of adversity, is a testament to the inseparable connection between the mind and body.

The ability to confront challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and stay committed to the journey is what sets you apart. Not everyone can be a martial artist.

The dojo’s lessons go beyond the repetition of punches and kicks. The inner warrior thrives on challenges, not avoiding them. And on the mat, sweat becomes a teacher, it’s a forge for life skills – resilience, determination, the spirit that says “never give up.”

The dojo and the training within it, shapes you, not just to defend yourself, but to face life with unwavering spirit.

Are you going to face the challenge or just sit on the couch?

“Perseverance is not a long race; it’s many short races one after the other.” – Walter Elliot (1888 – 1958)

 Photo Credit: With thanks to Sandra Sanchez